5 Eyebrow Enhancers—Explained

We all want perfect brows, but with the influx of new products, there’s clearly more than one way to get us there. Which is the right one to use?

“There are some products that work well for almost all face shapes and complexions, whereas others do not and are more specific to skill level,” says makeup artist Brittany Gay of Tenacious Glam Cosmetics at New York-based Oasis Day Spa. Below, she walks us through each type of product to help you find your perfect fit.

1. Powder
“I prefer powder to enhance a brow over most products because it gives a softer and more youthful look,” says Gay. “This is probably the best product to fit every lifestyle.” If you can apply eyeshadow, you can apply brow powder. The same rules apply.

Application Tip: “Use an angled brush [with short, stiff bristles] when applying. This will make for a smooth and more precise application.” Use the brush tip to follow the outline of the brows, coloring between the hairs with soft, even strokes.

2. Pencil
“Eyebrow pencils are good for creating a slightly different shape for a poorly shaped brow,” says Gay. “The application with a pencil is very sharp and clean.” However, because the application is so sharp, it requires more skill and practice. Use with a light touch or soften with powder.

Application Tip: “Apply in soft strokes, almost like you’re sketching,” says Gay. “A common mistake with pencil is drawing a shape that is too strong, so be mindful.”

3. Pomade
“A pomade is best to use when you want a very sleek look that keeps the brow hairs controlled while at the same time giving definition,” says Gay. Because most pomades are made of wax, the finished effect is a bit more stiff. For more movement, stick to powder or pencil.

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Application Tip: “Use it sparingly. A little goes a long way.” Similar to how you apply powder, use an angled brush to blend the product onto the skin and hairs. After dipping your brush into the product, swipe it across the back of your hand to remove excess. “Use a little bit of foundation to clean up underneath the brow to achieve a clean shape.”

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4. Gel
No matter what you’re starting with, brow gel can elevate your look. “Eyebrow gel is great over powder to tame the brow hair,” says Gay. “Clear gel is great to use on brows that are already dark and just need to be combed in place. And if you need to strengthen the color, this product is great for that, too.” She recommends always choosing a gel one shade lighter than your hair color. “Going too dark can age the face and be too harsh.”

Application Tip: “Apply lightly just on the brow—not on the skin—combing the brows up and out toward your hair line.” This adds movement to the brow so it looks groomed, yet natural.

5. Tint
Although only temporary, eyebrow tints are now available as at-home solutions in pen form. “If you change your hair color and need to darken your naturally light brows, a brow tint is a life saver,” says Gay. “Select a shade that is closest in tone to your hair color, and then grab one shade lighter.”

Application Tip: Because tints are highly pigmented, apply softly like you would a pencil and expect to put in some practice time. “Only apply the product to the brow hairs,” says Gay. “Avoid the skin around and behind the brows.” Otherwise, product will be noticeable to the naked eye.